The Details

Spring break is just around the corner, and invariably many families will head to Oahu for vacation. This spring, Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa has some new developments for guests.

In December, the resort, which is located in Ko Olina on Oahu, unveiled a significant expansion of its outdoor area. Called the Ka Maka Landing, the area features an infinity pool with a realistic grotto, a splash zone for younger kids and the Ulu Cafe restaurant.

The new pool features a variety of technical innovations and surprises: Guests can swim to the sounds of whales and dolphins underwater or spot Manaikalani, the constellation representing Maui’s fish hook, in the overhead grotto.

The new Keiki Cove features a play area with a series of low-pressure water jets that gush up to cool off toddlers. The cove also has a tide pool theme with a mosaic floor designed to look like a friendly octopus.

Meanwhile, the new Ulu Cafe is a casual poolside eatery that offers a quick-service breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. It features a wide variety of grab-and-go offerings, as well as hot entrees, daily sandwiches and soups and specialty coffee and soft drinks.

“This resort is unique and exciting, and it combines the magic and storytelling of Disney with the rich culture and beautiful scenery of Hawaii,” said Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “It is the ultimate family paradise with a touch of Disney magic.”

In addition to the changes to the public areas, Aulani also announced the completion of the final phase of its Disney Vacation Club villas. The 481 villas come in studio, one- or two-bedroom configurations that can accommodate from four to 12 guests, as well as three-bedroom Grand Villas for larger groups. The villas feature deep soaking tubs, stacked washer-dryers, fully equipped kitchens, flat-panel televisions and more.

“There is definitely a market for villas,” said Elliot Miles, vice president and general manager of Aulani. “The family market is obviously our niche and these villas are very spacious. It’s a convenient setup for families and they have been selling very well ever since we opened, so it’s great to have more available.”

With new amenities and enhanced accommodations that are ideal for families, Aulani will most certainly bring in large numbers of visitors this spring as both new and repeat guests will find even more Disney magic on Oahu.